Ribollita

Ribollita, a classic Italian dish, derives its name from the Italian word “ribollire,” which means “reboiled.” This hearty soup is a delicious transformation of leftover Zuppa di Verdure (see p.300), offering a comforting and heartwarming meal. With its layers of flavorful soup, bread, and vegetables, Ribollita is the epitome of Italian comfort food.

SERVES 4–6
PREP 10 MIN
COOK 40 MIN
FREEZE NOT SUITABLE

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 quantity day-old Zuppa di Verdure, prepared up to the point just before the cavolo nero is added (see p.300)
• 6 cavolo nero or curly kale leaves, or the outer leaves of a Savoy cabbage, tough stalks removed and the leaves coarsely chopped
• 6 slices good-quality stale bread
• 1 garlic clove, halved
• 2–3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, plus extra to serve
• 1⁄2–1 red onion, very finely sliced
• 4 tbsp freshly grated Parmesan (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 375˚F (190˚C).
2. In a large pan, bring the Zuppa di Verdure to a boil.
3. Stir in the chopped cavolo nero or curly kale leaves and simmer for 10 minutes or until they become tender.
4. While the soup is simmering, rub each slice of stale bread with the halved garlic clove.
5. Oil a large gratin dish or similar ovenproof dish with olive oil.
6. Spoon approximately one-quarter of the soup into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly over the base.
7. Layer half of the garlic-rubbed bread slices over the soup.
8. Spoon over half of the remaining soup on top of the bread.
9. Repeat these two layers once more, starting with the remaining slices of bread.
10. Lay the very finely sliced red onion over the top, and if desired, sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan.
11. Drizzle a little olive oil over the assembled layers.
12. Bake the Ribollita in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until it’s sizzling hot and the top has a golden brown crust.
13. Serve the Ribollita piping hot, with extra olive oil provided at the table for those who wish to drizzle more over their servings.

Ribollita is a true Italian comfort food, embodying the art of making the most out of leftovers and creating a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Enjoy your delicious Ribollita, a wonderful example of Italian comfort food that warms both heart and soul. Whether you’re savoring it as a standalone dish or as a creative transformation of leftover Zuppa di Verdure, this flavorful soup is sure to delight your taste buds. Buon appetito!